Twelve students from Carlow Karate Club (CKC) proudly represented Team Ireland at the recent International Karate Union European Championships & Games held in Szczecin, Poland.
Competing against athletes from over ten European nations, CKC made a powerful impression on the medal podium, taking home an impressive 22 medals including, 5 gold, 6 silver, and 11 bronze medals. Combined with results from other Irish clubs, Team Ireland earned over 50 medals in total, finishing third overall in the European standings and proudly marking Ireland as the third-best nation in Europe for Karate.
A standout achievement for CKC came from the Senior Males Team of Brian Keating, Andrei Martin, and David Korposh, who struck gold in Team Kumite Ippon, earning a trophy for a feat never before accomplished in Team Karate Ireland’s history. Individual gold medals were also won by Olan Sheehan and Blake Keating in their respective Kumite divisions.
Other competitors; Radic Korcala, Dervla Doyle, Amelia Taraszka, Oisin McMahon, Jack Fox, Grace Fox, and Cara Lawlor, each contributed to CKC’s success proudly returning home with multiple medals.
The athletes were coached and mentored by Sensei’s Patsy Whelan, Danielle Furey, and Rachel Farrell alongside Team Ireland, who spent over a year preparing the team for the competition, a true testament to CKC’s commitment and dedication. Carlow Karate members Robert Sheehan and Gavin Fox also represented Team Ireland as referees throughout the championship weekend, contributing their expertise on the floor.
Carlow Karate Club also expressed gratitude to its Fundraising Committee and the wider local community for their unwavering support throughout the year. Thanks to the efforts of club parents and guardians, as well as contributions from Certa Ireland and local councillors Paul Doogue, Adrienne Wallace, Andrea Dalton, and Fergal Browne, funds were raised to help cover travel and registration expenses for the competitors.
The club said it was “immensely proud” of all its athletes for their achievements on the European stage and for representing Carlow Karate Club and Team Ireland with distinction.
Stay up to date with the latest news and achievements from Carlow Karate Club by following @CarlowKarate on social media.
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